How to Start Writing Fiction | Jim Woods

As human beings, we are wired to crave stories. I’ll bet a day doesn’t go by when you don’t dive into stories in some fashion, whether it’s movies, TV shows, novels, audiobooks, or talking to your family about the crazy things that happened to you that day.

We crave stories so much that even at night, when we’re asleep, our brains continue to concoct stories for us!

Many writers give life and breath to their storytelling dreams by writing fiction. Whether you are a fiction veteran and have published your own books, or whether you have always wanted to write fiction but weren’t sure where to begin, you’ll love my conversation today with Jim Woods.

Jim is a great friend who has been a creative inspiration to me for many years. I don’t remember how we first met, but it was well over ten years ago when we connected in some online writing circles. Jim has been a constant encourager to both me and lots of other writers. He is also one of the most superb writers and storytellers I know.

Jim is a writing and story coach, and the author of many books, including his new western series, which includes Standoff at Sundown, Red Rock Justice, and Red Rock Vengeance, which just came out a few days ago.

In this conversation, Jim and I talk at length about how to get started writing fiction. The topics range from his process of writing a novel, daily writing goals, his thoughts on story templates like the Hero’s Journey and Save the Cat, the purpose of scenes, first steps in writing fiction, and more.

You can connect with Jim at his site: https://jimwoodswrites.com.